From Casablanca to NYC: A Night of Moroccan Culture

AJC ACCESS NY, the American Sephardi Federation, and the Moroccan community in New York invite you to an evening of education and cultural celebration.

Our evening will begin with a speaking program focusing on Moroccan history, religious co-existence, and AJC’s unique relationship with the Kingdom of Morocco. Morocco is a model of stability and tolerance for Muslim countries worldwide, and has a unique history of protecting its Jewish citizens. We will conclude the evening with a dinner reception featuring live Moroccan music.

The American Jewish Committee’s young professional division ACCESS NY, the American Sephardi Federation, and the Mimouna Association are partnering for an event launching the relationship between the ACCESS NY members and the Consulate General of Morocco, as well as the relationship between young American Jewish and Moroccan communities in New York. The program will focus on showcasing Morocco’s leading role as a moderate Muslim nation in the region fractured by religious extremism, and its unique support for its religious minorities, including Jews. Co-sponsored by the Morocco Office of Tourism and Nahmias distillery.

PROGRAM:

6:30 – Cocktail hour, possibly featuring a keynote speaker (to be confirmed): for AJC Marshall Society members and diplomats. Jason Guberman, the Executive Director of the American Sephardi Federation will give a brief introduction. Elmehdi Boudra (Mimouna Association) will give a few words about Mimouna’s partnership with ACCESS NY and ASF. Representatives of the Office of Tourism will give a short intro to Morocco. Short video about Morocco courtesy of the Office of Tourism. Dr. John P. Entelis (Fordham University) will speak about Morocco’s leading role as a moderate Muslim state in the Region. Suggested Speaker will discuss the Marrakech conference and the protection for the minorities/Jews in Morocco. Jason Isaacson, AJC’s Director of International Relations, in conversation with a high-level Moroccan diplomat.